Our son Jason had recently turned four when a friend of my wife suggested we look at martial arts and the classes being taught by a young instructor Jose Castro. He thought it would be a great activity. So he adventure began. Little did we realize at the time that this new venture would span more than three decades and include three generations of our family. No matter your age, TaeKwonDo is a sport that benefits you physically, socially, mentally and spiritually. Our son began two weeks after turning four. I began at fifty, and we both are still learning. Our daughter began at age six, and plans to train again.
Among the most beneficial health effects of TaeKwonDo are weight loss, building of strong bones and muscles, cardiovascular health, flexibility as well as agility. In addition, it has mental health benefits which include increased self-confidence and focus as well as reduced stress and improved cognitive function. With no time limit or age requirement, TKD can build rapport between parent and child as well as provide family activities together. While learning new forms and techniques builds confidence, learning patience and understanding when teaching other students builds skills in judgment and decision-making. Nothing is more satisfying than watching a young black belt introducing TaeKwonDo to a first or second grader and developing as an instructor themselves.
Activities off the exercise floor included membership in Master Castro’s Demo Team and performances before a large audience at the UGA Coliseum and in schools. Tournament around the state and a journey to California to compete in the national championships were highlights along the way.
At the heart of CMAC is Master Castro himself and now his instructor-son, Naaman. José Castro has taught all of us that actions have consequences, and losing is assured if you don’t give 100%.
We are grateful that our grandsons will have the TKD experience. Aged 7 and 9, they have advanced to their second colored belts and will soon be testing again.
Thirty-one years have passed since that first lesson in the old school. But the learning process continues. The credo tells it all: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit.